De Bruyne made the move to Manchester in 2015 from Wolfsburg and has gone on to become one of the most influential players in the Citizens' history.

The Belgian has won 16 trophies, which include five Premier League titles as well as City's first UEFA Champions League crown.

Guardiola compared De Bruyne's impact to that of other title-winning former City players, Vincent Kompany, Sergio Aguero and David Silva.

"A sad day but a happy day for the fact that I had the pleasure personally to live this time with him," Guardiola said.

"What he gave us, all of us, with his humanity and his influence in our success in the last decade. Of course, part of us is leaving.

"When Vincent or Sergio or David left, these players have contributions.

"He's one of the greatest in this country. I have to be careful for the respect for the players that have played incredible roles, but there's no doubt he's one of the greatest for sure.

"The doors are open here for the rest of his life. He's part of this family, this club."

City, which has won the past four Premier League titles, said it is planning a "fitting tribute" before the end of the season.

"Manchester City will bid an emotional farewell to Kevin de Bruyne this summer when his contract expires, bringing an end to a glittering 10-year period at the club," a club statement read.

"The Belgian, a global icon of the game, has played 413 matches for City.

"During that period, he has scored 106 times, making him the first City midfielder since Colin Bell to reach a century of goals.

"The club and all of our fans will now take the time to deliver a fitting tribute and farewell to one of the greatest players to ever play in the Premier League."